The UK and Qatar have announced plans to deepen their collaboration in genomics and artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize healthcare and drive economic growth. These initiatives were revealed during Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani’s State Visit to the UK, marking a significant step forward in their bilateral relationship.
The two countries have committed to establishing a shared Genomics Medicine Academy and launching a joint commission focused on AI research. These initiatives complement the ongoing UK-Qatar Strategic Dialogue, which was launched in 2022 and is now expanding to cover science, innovation, and technology. This reflects both nations’ ambitions to harness science and technology to address major global challenges, from boosting economic growth to improving public health.
Under the agreement, UK and Qatari officials will meet annually to advance joint work in science and technology, with initial emphasis on AI and the digital transformation of government services. The AI commission will be formed in partnership with London’s Queen Mary University, the Alan Turing Institute, and Doha’s Hamad bin Khalifa University. The commission’s goal is to develop a roadmap for UK-Qatar cooperation in AI, capitalizing on the technology’s potential to improve quality of life.
The Qatar-UK Genomics Medicine Academy will build on existing research collaborations between the two countries. Its primary aim is to discover new approaches for diagnosing and treating a range of debilitating diseases.
UK Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle described the partnership as a “huge step forward,” noting that the focus will initially be on AI and digital transformation, with the Genomics Medicine Academy delivering insights that will advance the treatment of various health conditions. He emphasized the significant rewards that will come from cooperation in these fields, boosting both economies and improving healthcare systems.
Health Minister Baroness Gillian Merron added that AI and genomics breakthroughs could transform medical diagnoses and treatments, helping the UK become a leading force in life sciences and medical technology. She pointed out that, as part of the UK’s 10 Year Health Plan, the health service will shift from analog to digital, putting patients at the forefront of technological advances.
